US' Punjabi village gets its first Sikh Mayor

California, Nov 14: Kash (Kashmir) Gill scripted history by becoming the first Sikh mayor of that Yuba City, which is often called the Punjabi village, and in turn first Sikh mayor in California.

47-year-old Gill was sworn as the new mayor of the city on Tuesday, Nov 10, in a ceremony that was attended by hundreds of Indians who were treated Punjabi music and Indian cuisine.

"We have made history tonight, and everyone is part of that history," said Gill.

"I am elated to be honoured with this position. We Punjabis have been here for more than a hundred years, and to be the mayor of this city is a privilege for the whole community," he said adding that representing Yuba City is a great honour.

Yuba city is not only first Punjabi village but was also the first Punjabi village in this country.

Gill hails from Lakhsina village in Hoshiarpur district of Punjab. He served as the vice-mayor before becoming the mayor to succeed Leslie McBride.